Web3 Research Digest: Arbitrum Valuation, Modular MEV, and Data Availability Layers

Introduction

Stay updated with the latest Web3 industry insights, covering topics like Arbitrum’s valuation, modular MEV, and data availability layers. This digest compiles key research, interviews, and project analyses to keep you informed.

Key Highlights

1️⃣ Blockchain Gaming: MapleStory Universe

• Adventure Island + NFTs: Nexon’s MapleStory Universe integrates NFTs into its MMORPG, leveraging blockchain for an open ecosystem.

  • No NFT预售: All in-game items (NFTs) are earned through free gameplay and traded freely.
  • MOD N沙盒编辑器: Players create content using NFTs, sharing revenue as contributors.

👉 Explore MapleStory Universe

2️⃣ Research: Arbitrum Valuation Based on Sequencer Profit

• Sequencer Margin: Profit from L2 transactions (cost x - batch processing cost y).

  • ARB Valuation Metrics: Daily transactions (2M needed for $0.50 ARB) and sequencer profit (55 ETH per million Tx).
  • Expert Insight: Crypto PE multiples may exceed 15x (reference: Lido).

3️⃣ Rug Pull Analysis: Common Traits

• Red Flags:

  1. Namecheap domain registration (15/40 projects).
  2. Short lifespan (median 57 days).
  3. Fraudulent strategies (fake partnerships, high-yield lures).
  4. Anonymous teams (24/31 projects).

4️⃣ Modular MEV: Rollups, DA Layers, and Cross-Domain MEV

• Rollups MEV: Profits shift to sequencers; suggest sharing with validators for security budgets.
• DA Layer MEV: Pricing power can extract value from Rollups.
• Cross-Domain MEV: Capital-heavy extractors may centralize liquidity; anti-censorship measures (e.g., crLists) are vital.

5️⃣ Interview: Move Language with Sam Blackshear (a16z)

• EVM Limitations: Over-fits platform details; Move avoids blockchain-specific design.
• Move Prover: Prevents reentrancy/access-control bugs.
• Cross-Platform Flexibility: Targets both smart contract devs and Web2 newcomers.

6️⃣ zkSync’s Execution Delay Mechanism

• Time-Lock Smart Contracts: 24-hour delay for L2 block execution (adjustable).

• Advantages:

  1. Vulnerability response window.
  2. No protocol changes; fallback to original state if compromised.
  3. Applies to all bridges (custom or standard).

7️⃣ Fuel: Modular Execution Layer

• Architecture: Avoids EVM pitfalls with UTXO model and Sway language.
• Challenges: Early-stage lack of developer infrastructure.
• Fuel VM: Compile-time vulnerability checks via Sway.

8️⃣ Arbitrum Orbit: L3 Framework

• Permissionless L3s: Customizable chains (non-EVM, non-ETH gas).
• Stylus兼容: Rust/C++ support; 100x throughput vs. L1.

👉 Discover Arbitrum Orbit

Project Spotlights

• Derivio: zkSync-based structured derivatives.
• The Root Network: Decentralized metaverse blockchain.
• Avail: Modular DA layer for Rollups.

Data Availability Layer Comparison

FAQs

Q: How does MapleStory Universe monetize without NFT sales?

A: Revenue comes from NFT trading fees shared with contributors.

Q: What’s Sequencer Margin in Arbitrum?

A: Profit from L2 transaction processing (Tx cost minus batch cost).

Q: Why use execution delay in zkSync?

A: Provides time to detect exploits and freeze protocols via governance.

Conclusion

This digest bridges research and actionable insights across Web3’s evolving landscape. For deeper dives, subscribe to ChainFeeds Telegram.